Illustration of a felt doll beside a lit brass menorah on a knit tablecloth with coins, a snowman, and small trees nearby (National Menorah Lighting Ceremony)

National Menorah Lighting Ceremony

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Experience the grandeur of the National Menorah Lighting Ceremony, a globally recognized event that launches the celebration of Chanukah. This spectacular ceremony features musical performances by military bands and a celebrity Jewish artist, alongside readings from the "Mendy Deren National Menorah Essay Contest" winners. Witness the lighting of the world's largest menorah, a powerful symbol of religious freedom, attracting thousands of attendees and reaching millions worldwide.

Map It Details Official site

🎄 If you like this, try:

Illustration of skaters in knitted hats on an outdoor ice rink ringed with trees and string lights (Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden) Ice Rink at the Sculpture Garden Illustration of Christmas activities in Washington 27 Christmas activities in Washington
Advertisement

See more other Christmas activities near Washington

Illustration of two skaters in red coats and knitted hats on a small ice rink beside a snowman, trees and a glowing hut (Hill Family Biking Holiday Lights Ride 2026) Hill Family Biking Holiday Lights Ride 2026 Washington · 3 mi Illustration of Santa checking a long list at a desk with an elf while children peek around a door (Holidays at National Harbor) Holidays at National Harbor National Harbor · 8 mi Illustration of felt figures in winter clothes holding candles in a church beside stained glass windows and a decorated tree (Annual Nativity Scenes Exhibit) Annual Nativity Scenes Exhibit Washington · 3 mi Illustration of fireworks bursting over a harbour at midnight as a crowd holds sparklers on the waterfront (First Night Alexandria) First Night Alexandria Alexandria · 6 mi Illustration of a holiday parade with a giant present float, a marching band and families waving (Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade) Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade Silver Spring · 7 mi

Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

nationalmenorah.org

Last year

Tickets

$

Ages

All ages

Featured Performers

  • Military Bands of the Military District of Washington
  • Celebrity Jewish artist (specific artist not named)

Food & Drink

Food and entertainment available

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
The Ellipse · Washington, DC 20008 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families, individuals interested in cultural and religious events

Vibe

Celebratory, inspiring, community-focused

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as thousands of attendees are expected.
  • Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on ticket availability and any schedule changes.
  • Dress warmly, as the event takes place outdoors in December.
  • Consider using public transportation to reach the venue, as parking may be limited.
  • Be prepared for security checks, as this is a high-profile public event.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Annual lighting ceremony of the National Chanukah Menorah
  • Musical performances by Military Bands
  • Readings by "Mendy Deren National Menorah Essay Contest" winners
  • Global media coverage

Links & Contact

Run by American Friends of Lubavitch (Chabad)

Website / Tickets

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the National Menorah Lighting Ceremony?

It is the annual lighting ceremony of the National Chanukah Menorah, held on the Ellipse in Washington D.C., which is considered the most prominent public Chanukah event globally.

When are tickets available?

Tickets typically become available on November 10th at 5 PM for the December 14th lighting ceremony.

What kind of entertainment can I expect?

The event features musical performances by the Military Bands of the Military District of Washington, often accompanied by a celebrity Jewish artist, and readings by the "Mendy Deren National Menorah Essay Contest" winners.

Is there food available at the event?

Yes, the event includes food and entertainment for attendees.

What is the significance of the National Menorah?

The National Menorah is an international symbol of religious freedom and the celebration of Chanukah, inspiring communities worldwide to host their own public menorah lightings.

Featured Video

Browse Christmas in Washington

Illustration of knitted snowman friends in red sweaters and hats holding mugs of cocoa near a fireplace and small tree Parties20 events Illustration of felt figures in Santa hats holding wrapped presents near a snowman and small decorated trees Giving Opportunities2 events Illustration of a small red house and a snowman in a red scarf among snowy trees with glowing warm string lights at dusk Lights13 events Illustration of a Christmas market stall with ornaments, wooden toys and a smiling vendor Markets25 events Illustration of a performer taking a bow under a spotlight between velvet curtains as the audience claps Shows26 events Illustration of neighbours chatting with cocoa in a community hall decorated with paper chains and wrapped gifts Unique & Unusual27 events MapNearby

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

✏️ Suggest a correction to this listing

Contributors & Updates

Last checked: